Theology for the Church Romans 11:26: All Spiritual Israel: Jews and Gentiles with Lee Irons
Nov 3, 2025
Lee Irons, a church-planting pastor and New Testament scholar, dives into the complex interpretations of Romans 11:26. He explores the meaning of 'All Israel' and distinguishes between spiritual and physical Israel. Lee discusses Paul's flexible understanding of Israel and presents major views on salvation, including the intriguing idea that 'All Israel' encompasses both Jews and Gentiles. He unpacks the olive tree metaphor as a symbol of God’s promises and the significance of union with Christ in fulfilling God’s plan.
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Personal Theological Journey
- Lee Irons recounts his theological journey from dispensational premillennialism to Reformed Calvinism and PhD study at Fuller Seminary.
- He frames his perspective as rooted in Reformed soteriology while acknowledging some differences with the host.
Romans 9–11 Addresses Israel's Paradox
- Romans 9–11 answers why most ethnic Israel rejected the gospel despite the gospel being rooted in Old Testament promises.
- Paul treats this as a providential mystery showing how God's promises are fulfilled through unexpected means.
Paul's Malleable Use Of 'Israel'
- Paul uses 'Israel' flexibly: ethnic Israel, the elect remnant, and theological/spiritual Israel all appear in Romans 9–11.
- Lee warns readers not to expect single, rigid technical meanings for Paul's terms across the argument.
